Evaluation of the Potential Aphrodisiac Activity of Psoralea corylifolia in Male Albino Rats

Evaluation of effect of the aqueous, alcohol and chloroform extract of Psoralea corylifolia on sexual behaviour of male albino rats. Plant extracts (aqueous, alcohol and chloroform) at doses of 100, 200 and 400 mg/kg were administrated for 21 days. The female rats involved in mating were made receptive by hormonal treatment. The general mating behaviour, libido and potency along with orientation behaviour were studied. The effect of the extract on body weight, reproductive and vital organ weight were determined. The effective chloroform extract were further studied for its effect on hormonal assay and compared with the standard reference drug sildenafil citrate. Similarly adverse effects and acute toxicity of the extract were also evaluated. Oral administration of aqueous, alcohol and chloroform at doses of 100, 200 and 400 mg/kg were significantly increased the Mounting Frequency, Intromission Frequency and Ejaculation latency with reduction in Mounting Latency, Intromission Latency and Post Ejaculatory Interval. It also significantly increased libido as well as Erection, Quick Flips, Long Flips and the aggregate of penile reflexes with penile stimulation. There was significant increase in level of testosterone in the serum. The extract was also observed to be devoid of any adverse effects and acute toxicity. The results of the present study demonstrate that aqueous, alcohol and chloroform extract of Psoralea corylifolia seed enhance sexual behaviour in male rats. It also thus provides a rationale for the traditional use of Psoralea corylifolia as acclaimed aphrodisiac and for the management of male sexual disorders.